The Akron Police Department released body camera footage and surveillance video showing the fatal officer shooting of Michael Jones, a 54-year-old man suspected of stealing a U-Haul box truck. The video shows the moments leading up to Jones’ death, including his attempted arrest and the officer firing two shots at Jones as he drives away. Jones is then dragged out of the vehicle and handcuffed. Police administered emergency first aid, but Jones was pronounced dead at the scene. The initial news release from police stated that a loaded firearm was recovered from inside the U-Haul, but later clarified that the firearm was found on or near Jones after he was removed from the vehicle. Two 911 calls were received, with one alleging Jones was shot while handcuffed, which was found to be inconsistent with the body camera footage. The Bureau of Criminal Investigations is conducting the investigation, with the case to be reviewed by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and Summit County Grand Jury. The Office of Professional Standards and Accountability is also conducting an internal investigation. Akron Mayor Shammas Malik expressed condolences to Jones’ family and emphasized the importance of open conversations about public safety in the community. Jones’ children, represented by attorney Bobby DiCello, are seeking justice and holding the officers accountable for their actions.
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Body camera footage reveals encounter prior to Akron officer fatally shooting man in suspected stolen vehicle
